1971 Seiko 6139-6002 Automatic Chronograph “Silver Pogue” (Thong Sia)
1971 Seiko 6139-6002 Automatic Chronograph “Silver Pogue” (Thong Sia)
For vintage Seiko lovers, perhaps no series is as instantly recognizable as the 6139-600X models that have become synonymous with the introduction of this historic movement. From the “Pepsi” tachymetric bezel, the the “H-Link” bracelet, they serve as the embodiment of Seiko’s efforts to deliver, with style, their first automatic chronograph. Today, these models are often referred to as, and fall under the umbrella of the “Pogue” models due to their association to Col. William Pogue and his now historic yellow dialed variant. Available in three colorways (Yellow, Silver, and Blue), it goes without saying that no matter your preference, they are all memorable in their own right and the right example would be a highlight in any collection. For collectors, though, one these stands out as a “Grail,” and is often the missing corner of a three piece puzzle. The “Silver Pogue” is nothing shy of a needle in a haystack. So rare in fact, that for many years, most enthusiasts even doubted their existence. This is likely because it was never available in North America. In fact, it was only available to the South East Asian (SEA) market through Seiko’s sole distribution partner in that region, Thong Sia. The Seiko/Thong Sia relationship was an incredibly important one to both parties, and as a result, Seiko allowed for specialized configurations and color ways never available elsewhere. The “Aussie” Pogue, “Reverse Lume” Pogue, and chocolate 6011 and 8020 are other examples of this collaboration. Thong Sia variants were exclusively fitted with Stelux bracelets (Stelux is currently the parent company to Thong Sia), and the day displays were almost always Roman numerals or Chinese. This example from May of ‘71 is absolutely stunning, and completely original aside from a replacement crystal. The dial is a mesmerizing lacquered silver sunburst that has to be seen in hand to truly be appreciated. This one is perfect. The original luminous material is still bright white and free of color or degradation. The inner bezel is a deep contrasting black that shows no fading from UV exposure, and rotates smoothly in either direction via the crown. The polished hands have no corrosion or oxidation, and the luminous material is the same bright white as the hour markers. The chronograph hands are a fiery brick orange with no chipping or paint loss. The metallic red and blue tachymetric bezel shows virtually no wear or fading in the color saturation. The case is unpolished, and all of the factory finishes are crisp, and the corners are razor sharp. It’s keeping near perfect time post service, and the chronograph functions are snappy and responsive. It comes attached to the original “fishbone” bracelet that provides both a seamless and comfortable finish. In near mint condition, we’re convinced a finer example would be impossible to find. This opportunity is sure to be a short one.
Original Seiko/Stelux “Fishbone” Bracelet in Stainless Steel
Serviced 9/22/22
Diameter- 41mm
Lugs- 19mm